Manual Handling

 

Definition:

For the purpose of clarification, the definition of manual handling shall have the same meaning to which it has been given in the Code of Practice for Manual Handling (No. 25, 20 April 2000) This definition involves:

 

“Activities involving lifting, pushing, pulling, holding, throwing and carrying. It [also] includes repetitive tasks such as packing, typing, assembling, cleaning and sorting, using hand tools, and operating machinery and equipment”

 

As part of EnviroPoles commitment towards safe and healthy working environment in addition all matters concerning OH&S, strict focus and consideration is given to safe and practical methods of managing manual handling within the workplace. Workplace injuries such as back and spinal injuries, wrist, ankle and knee injuries are unfortunately, some of the typical injuries associated with the cleaning industry.

In order to control and minimize the risk associated with manual handling; EnviroPoles has adopted a three stage risk assessment process.

 

 

1. Identifying hazardous manual handling.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For those employed as cleaners  and installers, injuries evolving from extended periods of time, heavy lifting of poles, inserts and machinery, having to position oneself in awkward positions can result in harm to various parts of the body. In order to avoid bone and muscle injuries, EnviroPoles advocates to all EnviroPole employees and sub contractor’s, a sensible approach to all aspects of manual handling within the workplace.

 

Accordingly, a Manual Handling Guide is distributed to all new employees and sub contractors as part of their induction with EnviroPoles. The aim ultimately is to assist all personnel with determining the most appropriate methods of undertaking tasks typical to their working environment. The principal purpose of the manual Handling Guide therefore is to create awareness and understanding of Manual Handling and to have all personnel employed and / or contracted by EnviroPoles to think before they act and consequently, avoid injury.